Harinordoquy given hope of France recall

France head coach Philippe Saint-Andre insists veteran back-row Imanol Harinordoquy is still firmly in his plans after a strong start to the season.

Harinordoquy has won 82 caps for France, 39 of them coming in the RBS 6 Nations, but his last appearance for Les Bleus came in a loss to Wales in March 2012.

However, since leaving relegated Biarritz for Toulouse over the summer, the 34-year-old has experienced something of a rejuvenation and was named man of the match in the French side's European win over Bath at the weekend.

Harinordoquy crossed for one of Toulouse's three tries in that win at the Rec and Saint-Andre says his impressive displays since moving to the Stade Ernest-Wallon haven't gone unnoticed.

"He had enormous problems with his knees over two seasons," said Saint-Andre. "Once he sorted those out, he's returned to being the great player he always was.

"It's true that his performances with Toulouse, whether as a flanker or at No.8, have been of high quality.

"We haven't scratched out his name. On the contrary, if there are injuries, then we will explore the possibility of whether to recall Imanol or not."

England Under-20s may have agonisingly missed out on a third straight World Rugby U20 Championship title on Saturday but head coach Jon Callard is adamant that fans are witnessing the next generation of international superstars.